Semiconductor firms in Malaysia are monitoring risks from disruptions to helium supplies due to the Middle Eastern conflict. Helium is a vital ingredient for industries such as semiconductors and medical imaging, and any slowdown in output is expected to affect global supplies. The situation has not caused any operational disruptions so far. Wong Siew Hai, president of the Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association, said most chipmakers globally, including those with operations in Malaysia, have diversified sourcing and inventory buffers to reduce immediate risk. Malaysia is home to suppliers and factories serving semiconductor makers like Intel Corp (INTC.O) and Infineon (IFXGn.DE) and STMicroelectronics (STMPA.PA) and around 7% of the world's ⁠semiconductor trade passes through the country. Fitch Ratings warned of rising risks from the Iran conflict, with credit risk worsening if shortages exceed inventory buffers.